FILES: National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu
Northern Elders Progressive Group has urged governors in Nigeria’s North-West to collaborate with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and security agencies to pursue dialogue with bandits, aiming to halt the region’s persistent violence.
In a statement made in Kaduna on Tuesday, Yusuf Abubakar, the group’s coordinator in the North-West, praised the NSA, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and other stakeholders for their non-kinetic approaches to restoring peace.
“We are encouraged by the progress so far. On recent travels from Sokoto to Gusau and Funtua to Zaria, I noticed a calmer environment, with enhanced security patrols and safer roads for commuters,” Abubakar remarked.
He encouraged governors to prioritize dialogue over condolence visits and prolonged military operations, which strain security forces.
“Investing resources in saving lives is wiser than spending billions on condolences. A single life outweighs any political gesture,” he emphasized.
Addressing critics of negotiation, Abubakar pointed to global precedents, stating, “Powerful nations have engaged with groups like the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and the Houthis. Dialogue isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s about preserving lives.”
He also criticized governors who claim to have intelligence on bandits’ movements but fail to share it with security agencies, calling such behavior “irresponsible propaganda.” Abubakar defended the NSA’s efforts and cautioned against politicizing or undermining the peace process, noting, “Attacking the NSA’s office is an attack on national unity and security.”
The group commended Sen. Shehu Buba, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Intelligence, and his team for their dedication to the dialogue process. “Sen. Buba and his team deserve praise, not criticism, for their tireless work to restore peace,” Abubakar said, adding that the real target of detractors is the NSA’s commendable initiative.
The Northern Elders Progressive Group called on North-West governors to work closely with the NSA, the Minister of Defence, and Service Chiefs to ensure the success of the peace efforts, urging all responsible northerners to support initiatives aimed at ending banditry and fostering unity.
